How to Choose a Stair Lift

5 Tips on How to Choose a Stair Lift

1. Know your stairs

If your stairs are a single flight of straight stairs, you can use a straight stair lift. Any other configuration requires a curved stair lift. Some people install two straight stair lifts when there is an intermediate landing, and then they transfer from one unit to the next, but this is not a great solution since you risk falling during the transfer.

2. Consider important features

Stair lift with the seat swivel feature.

A seat swivel feature at the top and bottom of the stairs can be handy to have on a straight stair lift because getting on and off the stairs is done facing away from the stairs. Other features might also be on your list, such as an error code display to see any service issues.

3. Find the right fit

Get out your scales and measuring tape to see what chair will fit you best. Choose a stair lift with the appropriate weight capacity. Sit in a normal dining chair to see how much width you may need to fit comfortably on the seat, or look for a unit with an adjustable arm width to give you the room you need. You can also ensure you like the fit by trying chairs out at a store with a showroom.

4. Choose a reputable brand

Choosing a new stair lift from a national brand often means you will receive a parts warranty to cover any defects. Compare using our list. It may be possible to source a previously owned stair lift if you have a limited budget, but be sure to do your research on the unit or buy from a known reseller rather than an individual.

5. Consider your surroundings

Stair lift flip-up rail

If your stair width is less than 30 inches, it may be very difficult to install a stair lift because you may not have enough clearance for your knees. If you have a door at the top or bottom landing, you may want to consider a flip-up or zero clearance rail option that keeps the stair lift from intruding on the door area. Consider a curved stair lift to allow you to park the unit out the way or very close to the bottom of the stairs (drop-nose parking).

You may also want to choose a curved stair lift if you want to “park” the unit around a corner at the top or the bottom of the stairs to give you free access to the stairs when the chair is not in use. Parking the lift away from the stairs also allows you to get on and off well away from the edge of the stairs.

WHAT OTHER PEOPLE ARE SAYING

I was completely satisfied with Silver Cross, their cost was less than any other place ,and I did search many, their service was excellent and they took wonderful care to make sure I could handle working them, I had two stair lifts put in. They are great looking and handle well. What a life saver. They also put bars on the walls of my tub, it is sure keeping me safe.

Sandra S.

Oshawa, ON

Over recent years our father has been deteriorating with his physical health, at the end of our rope, we turned to Vince Attisano Silvercross/Newmarket for help. It was like having another member of our family to help, guide and educate us to help our father to make him as independent as possible. Thank you for your knowledge, compassion and patience and the many questions with the installation of a stair lift for our father. Thank you for the professionalism and respect, the installation was precise, clean and the interruption at their home was minimal and follow up phone calls were appreciated. Thank you again Vince for giving us the best customer care we’ve ever experienced.